Weed Control J 2025; 24: e202500849

Research Article

Weed dynamics in cover crop/Sillage maize succession under potassium fertilization

DOI: 10.7824/wcj.2025;24:00849

Abstract:

Background:

Weeds compete with crops for resources, reducing agricultural productivity. Management practices involving cover crops and potassium fertilization can influence weed community dynamics.

Objective:

To evaluate the weed community in a Urochloa ruziziensis-sillage maize (Zea mays L.) for silage succession system, considering different potassium fertilizer (K) rates applied to the cover crop.

Methods:

During the fall-winter season, treatments included U. ruziziensis with six K rates (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, or 150 kg K2 O ha⁻¹ as KCl) and a fallow control. In the summer, maize was cultivated with complementary K rates to total 150 kg K2 O ha⁻¹ for the cover crop systems, and a conventional K application (60 + 90 kg K2 O ha⁻¹) for the fallow. Weed surveys were conducted using 0.50 m² metallic frame. Phytosociological indices, dry biomass, species count, and total weed density were determined.

Results:

The weed community and phytosociological indices varied depending on the crop and season. The highest dry biomass of weeds was observed before cutting U. ruziziensis. Species richness and weed density were higher at the V4 growth stage of maize, prior to herbicide application.

Conclusions:

Management with U. ruziziensis and potassium fertilization affects weed community dynamics. The choice of succession system and K rates directly influences weed infestation and can contribute to integrated weed management strategies.